The 2023 NFL Draft is a magical three-day event that will change the lives of a few hundred draft prospects, all 32 franchises, and fans from all over the world. We’re going to give you the latest information you need to know about the 2023 NFL Draft, including its date, start time, location, and more. Let’s dive into the most crucial 2023 NFL Draft information you need to know entering this spring.
When Is the 2023 NFL Draft?
Whether you’re an avid NFL draft fan or just learning about what all of the fuss is about, we’re providing year-round coverage of what some fans find the best event of the year. With more than 250 players hearing their name called, optimism and excitement fills the air as the time nears.
The 2023 NFL Draft takes place over three days, beginning Thursday, April 27, and ending Saturday, April 29. The first round, which consists of 31 picks after the Miami Dolphins were forced to forfeit their first-round pick, takes place on Thursday. Rounds 2 and 3 are on Friday, with Rounds 4-7 occuring on Saturday.
What Time Does the NFL Draft Start?
Each day of draft action begins at a different time. On Thursday, the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft begins at 8 p.m. ET. Every team has 10 minutes to submit their selection.
On Friday, the second and third rounds begin at 7 p.m. ET, and teams have seven minutes between each selection in Round 2. From the third round through the sixth round, teams have only five minutes to make their pick. Saturday’s final four rounds begin at Noon ET, and teams have four minutes to submit their choice in the seventh and final round.
Where is the 2023 NFL Draft?
The 2023 NFL Draft will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, where the Super Bowl 57 champions are from. It just so happens the Chiefs’ hometown will host the draft in the iconic area around Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial.
How Can I Watch the NFL Draft?
ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network air all seven rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft. Each broadcast offers its own unique analysis of the event.
Who Has the First Overall Pick?
The first round of the 2023 NFL Draft is set, barring any trades that can happen between now and after each selection is made. The Chicago Bears have the No. 1 overall pick after finishing the 2022 season with a 3-14 record. The Houston Texans won in Week 18, which pushed them into the No. 2 slot.
However, there’s no guarantee the current NFL Draft order stays the same. The Bears are “leaning toward” trading the pick to collect more assets, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Because they don’t need a quarterback, it’s more likely the team would benefit more from a bounty of picks than just one player with the top pick. The Bears may not be alone in trying to move down.
New Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort already volunteered his team as a trade-up target for other teams wanting a quarterback, saying, “We are prepared to select a player with our pick. That said, our phones will be open for any team that desires to move up. We will listen to offers!,” per The Draft Network’s Damian Parson. The Cardinals have the third overall pick in this class.
Top Prospects To Watch at the Draft
The quarterback position is always the most polarizing topic in any NFL draft class. The 2023 NFL Draft class is no different. There are four quarterbacks projected to go in the first round of the draft, including Alabama’s Bryce Young, Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, Kentucky’s Will Levis, and Florida’s Anthony Richardson.
There are also notable defensive prospects as well. Alabama pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. and Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter are considered elite talents at their position. It’ll be fascinating to see which teams aggressively target the quarterbacks and top two consensus defenders.